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Last Updated: Feb 6, 2017 - 2:32:04 PM |
CANAL VIOLATERS – Water sport operators bringing tours, including banana boat rides, into inland canals are advised that such activities are against the law.
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Freeport, Bahamas – The Building and Development Services Department of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) wishes to advise the public, that in accordance with the Freeport (Marina and Inland Waterways) Bylaws, certain restrictions apply when using the island’s canal system.
According to Arthur Jones, Vice President of Building and Development Services for GBPA, violation of such bylaws are on the increase. “Following legitimate complaints from residents who live along the canals regarding abuse of sea craft movements, it has become necessary to remind the public of some of the bylaws which govern the inland waterways and canals,” said Jones.
WARNING FOR BOATERS – According to Freeport byelaws, no sea craft should create a wash or wake when using inland waterways or canals.
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Citing safety concerns associated with such misuse, Jones explained that some boaters are speeding to the point of creating a wash or wake. “They’re causing too much turbidity in the water and creating excessive scouring effects on the foundation of seawalls. This thereby creates erosion, making the seawalls unstable and damaging protection to the properties along the waterways,” Jones added.
Additionally, according to the bylaws, commercial sea craft operators are not allowed to bring booze cruises, banana boats, jet skis, etc into the canals. The penalty for violation of such laws is three months imprisonment and revocation of licenses.
“The Port’s stance is that we want persons to obey the bylaws. We will post signs to remind the public of the bylaws and penalties for violating them. Also, we expect to receive additional monitoring from the police with regard to this matter,” stated Jones.
He further clarified that these bylaws pertain to the use of inland waterways or canals, and not to the channel leading into Port Lucaya which has a marina with commercial operations.
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